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When talking about the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun is probably the first destination that comes to mind. However, there’s another gem that’s stealing the hearts of travelers – Isla Mujeres.
This small island, just a short ferry ride away from Cancun, is making waves as the ultimate Mexican Caribbean hotspot.
Isla Mujeres is expected to have an average occupancy rate of nearly 95 percent during July and August, which would position it as the municipality with the highest occupancy rate in the entire state.
These numbers show that this picturesque Island is not only trendy but also well-established.
@travelbyram Would you go to 📍Isla Mujeres? #islamujeres #mexico #cancun #googleearth #travelbucketlist ♬ TALKING TO THE MOON x GET YOU MASHUP – Michael Napiza
A few decades ago, Isla Mujeres was little more than a fishing village with almost no development.
Yet in the last few years, the island has experienced a remarkable transformation, welcoming an increasing number of visitors and even being awarded the coveted ‘Magical Town’ status by the Tourism Secretary.
So, how did this tiny island become the hottest Mexican Caribbean destination?
Let’s find out!
World-Famous Beaches
Isla Mujeres’ beaches have everything travelers love about the Mexican Caribbean – white, sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The stunning Playa Norte is renowned as one of the top beaches in the world, even earning a spot in the ‘Best Beaches’ category in TripAdvisor’s ‘Best of the Best’ this year.
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It’s the perfect place to unwind, bask in the sun, and indulge in rejuvenating swims in its shallow, crystal-clear waters. Not only that, but you’ll also find excellent beach clubs that offer delicious seafood and refreshing tropical drinks.
And while Playa Norte often steals the spotlight, beaches like Playa Centro and Playa Albatros are equally enchanting and offer a more secluded and serene beach experience.
Furthermore, the beaches at Isla Mujeres are much less crowded than Cancun’s beaches and, more importantly, are much less affected by the pesky sargasso seaweed that often plagues the mainland coastline.
Unique & Diverse Attractions
Isla Mujeres boasts a wide range of attractions that cater to every traveler’s interests.
For those seeking underwater exploration, a visit to MUSA, the famous underwater museum, is a must. Dive into the captivating underwater wonderland and marvel at the unique art installations amidst the coral reefs.
Isla Mujeres’ waters are the perfect place to embark on a fascinating snorkeling escapade, where you’ll encounter a world of colorful fish and captivating underwater landscapes.
Hop aboard a catamaran for a scenic ride around the island, or rent a golf cart and cruise along its charming streets.
And let’s not forget Isla Mujeres’ delightful culinary offerings, which range from traditional Mexican dishes at local eateries to upscale restaurants showcasing top-notch international cuisine.
Exceptional Accommodation Options
Isla Mujeres boasts a collection of stunning resorts that epitomize the beauty and luxury of the Mexican Caribbean.
For those seeking an indulgent and lavish experience, the all-inclusive resorts on Isla Mujeres deliver unparalleled luxury. One notable example is Mia Reef Isla Mujeres, situated on its own islet adjacent to the island.
If you prefer a more budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort, hotels like Playa La Media Luna offer a delightful choice.
Interestingly, some of the most luxurious properties are not found directly on Isla Mujeres itself but on the mainland in Costa Mujeres – also known as Playa Mujeres. (Will they name the next one Bahia Mujeres?)
While technically part of the Isla Mujeres municipality, this secluded paradise on the mainland contributes significantly to the allure of Isla Mujeres as a whole.
Resorts like ATELIER Playa Mujeres and Excellence Playa Mujeres redefine the concept of luxury, elevating it to new heights.
Accessibility & Safety
Getting from Cancun to Isla Mujeres is super easy, barely an inconvenience. You can take a 20-minute ferry ride from Puerto Juárez, which is located downtown, or from one of the three other docks in the hotel zone.
But if a ferry ride doesn’t sound too exciting, worry not! There are also several catamaran tours that take you from Cancun to Isla Mujeres – the stylish way.
Once there, you can rest assured that your safety and comfort are in good hands.
The local authorities have implemented stringent safety measures to ensure the well-being of visitors, enlisting the support of the police, military, and navy.
As a result, the municipality is considered one of the safest destinations for travelers in the Mexican Caribbean.
Moreover, Atenea Gómez, the mayor of Isla Mujeres, recently developed an ambitious plan to revamp much of the island, aiming to improve infrastructure and embellish existing public spaces, ultimately bringing the island to new heights.
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